This is one of Ligeti's most famous pieces, a tour de force of rhythm and sound-textures. A "chaconne" is a particular variation form, in which a chord pattern is repeated while variations on it are played simultaneously. In the words "a chord pattern is repeated" you have the basis of a reference to rock music, for just that kind of structure is often used in rock (and in jazz, too, for that matter).

The work, lasting about five minutes, is in a two-part form. The main structure consists of a pounding rhythmic pattern of chords in rock rhythm (one of the chords is so low and closely-spaced that it fills the function of the bass drum), while the plucked sonority of the instrument is exploited in the melodic line, as this resembles guitar sounds. The second part ceases the rhythmic idea, and serenely presents a chord progression.

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